Jason Witten Misses First-Ballot Hall of Fame Selection

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Jason Witten, the former NFL tight end who spent 16 seasons with the Dallas Cowboys, did not make the cut for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026 on the first ballot. Witten, who holds numerous Cowboys franchise receiving records, was one of 15 modern-era finalists this year but was not selected for induction alongside players like Drew Brees, Larry Fitzgerald, and Luke Kuechly.

Why it matters

Witten's omission from the Hall of Fame on the first ballot was surprising to many, given his impressive career statistics and accomplishments. As one of the most productive tight ends in NFL history, his exclusion has sparked debate about the Hall of Fame selection process and the criteria used by the committee.

The details

Witten, who played for the Cowboys from 2003 to 2017 and also had a brief stint with the Oakland Raiders, holds the Cowboys' records for most consecutive games started (229) and most games played overall (255). He was an 11-time Pro Bowl selection and a two-time first-team All-Pro. Witten ranks fourth among all players in NFL receptions and second only to Tony Gonzalez among tight ends.

• Witten was announced as one of 15 modern-era finalists for the Hall of Fame Class of 2026 on February 6, 2026.
• The Hall of Fame Class of 2026 was inducted during the NFL Honors ceremony on February 6, 2026.

What’s next

The Hall of Fame selection committee will continue to evaluate Witten's candidacy for future induction, and he is expected to be a strong contender in the coming years.